Creative Ways To Bring a Lake Wedding Theme to Life in Tahoe

There’s so much to love about the lake — it’s the perfect combination of adventurous and romantic, making a lake wedding an unforgettable experience where breathtaking views meet outdoor activities, all wrapped up in an intimate, serene atmosphere. When you get married in Lake Tahoe, you can embrace your surroundings by having a lake wedding theme at your already lakeside ceremony. What does this look like exactly? Keep reading for creative lake themed wedding ideas for a fun and elevated celebration. 

How Do You Plan a Lake Wedding?

In a lot of ways, planning a lake wedding is similar to planning a traditional wedding. You’ll need a venue, a wedding planner, a caterer, a photographer, and so on. But there are a few ways in which a wedding on the lake can differ from a traditional one. 

When it comes to planning a lakeside beach wedding, especially in a stunning location like Lake Tahoe, you’ll want to keep these things in mind:

1. Weather: Since lakeside settings are outdoors, consider the season and weather conditions. Have a backup plan, such as a tent or indoor area, in case of inclement weather. 
2. Guest Comfort: To elevate the guest experience, be sure to provide amenities for guests, such as shaded areas, blankets for cooler evenings, and fans or misters for heat. 
3. Transportation and Parking: Plan for guest arrival and departure, especially if the location is remote. Consider arranging shuttles or boats if necessary, and ensure ample parking.
4. Permits and Regulations: Check if you need permits for your event, particularly if you’re planning on using public land or water. Be aware of any noise ordinances or restrictions on decorations.
5. Safety Measures: If your wedding involves activities on the water, make sure there are safety measures in place, such as life jackets and first aid kits.
6. Environmental Impact: A lakeside wedding should be an eco-friendly event that minimizes waste, uses biodegradable materials, and respects the natural environment.

What Are the Best Colors for a Lake Wedding?

Think of hues that echo the calming whispers of nature. Soft blues and greens are go-to colors because they perfectly mirror the gentle ripples of water and the lush surroundings. Earthy tones like sandy beige or muted browns add a warm embrace to your palette, grounding the ethereal vibes. 

But also, don’t feel like you have to shy away from a splash of personality! Consider adding pops of color — maybe a bold coral or sunny yellow — to give your decor a lively twist while still maintaining that serene, lakeside charm. It’s all about creating a harmonious blend that enhances the natural backdrop!

5 Ways To Bring Your Lake Wedding Theme to Life in Lake Tahoe

Having a wedding on the lake doesn’t mean you have to embrace a lake theme — but it’s definitely a fun option! If you go that route, here are five ways to bring your lake wedding theme to life with lake themed decor ideas.

1. Lake Themed Ceremony Arch

This is one of our favorite lake themed decor ideas. Take our clients Lesley and Dan, who added paddles to their ceremony display. You can do something similar or consider incorporating elements like driftwood and local wildflowers into your arch to add character and blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

2. Lake Themed Unity Sand 

Cue the tears! Lesley and Dan found such a beautiful way to unite their new family by having the kids involved in a unity sand ceremony, using colors that reflected the lake’s hues. You could take it a step further by incorporating actual sand from the lakeshore or matching the shades to the tranquil blues and greens of the lake, creating a meaningful and harmonious symbol of your union.

3. Lake Themed Wildlife Encounters

We also love how this couple incorporated bears into their lake themed decor, starting with having a ring-BEAR (a close friend dressed up in a bear costume) and bear-shaped cookies. Bears are super common in Lake Tahoe, but you can also extend the theme with nods to other local wildlife. 

4. Lake Themed Reception Activities

One of the best ways to enjoy the lake and surroundings at your wedding is to give guests ways to stay entertained outdoors. At Lesley and Dan’s wedding, it included cornhole by the water, which the kids loved. You can expand the fun with activities like paddleboarding, a friendly kayak race, or even a cozy lakeside bonfire as the sun sets, providing guests with unforgettable experiences.

5. Lake Themed Photoshoot

And of course, when you’re having a wedding on the lake, you need to sneak away for some photos by the water’s edge. Capture the magic during sunset for a romantic glow, or take advantage of the peaceful setting by incorporating a canoe as a prop. These moments will create stunning keepsakes that truly reflect the essence of your lakeside celebration.

North Tahoe Event Center Is the Perfect Venue for a Lake Themed Wedding 

Because our venue is just steps away from the water’s edge, it’s the ideal Lake Tahoe wedding venue for a lakeside ceremony. Plus, because our versatile space combines indoor and outdoor options, you don’t have to worry about inclement weather or guest comfort. We have everything you need to embrace a lake wedding theme while making sure every detail reflects the serene charm of Lake Tahoe. With stunning views and a dedicated team ready to bring your vision to life, your special day will be as breathtaking as the setting itself. Get in touch today to book a tour and see for yourself how we can help bring your lake themed wedding to life!